Southern Utah University named Sidney Vowles as the 2016 Scholar of the Year. Although she began as a biology major, she received a bachelor’s degree in chemistry at SUU’s commencement ceremony.
“I love learning about biology, but I was taken with understanding the world at a more foundational level, and that is what chemistry gives me,” said Vowles. “I want to study medicine, so I’ll be surrounded by biology studies the rest of my life, but I wanted my background and basis for education to be chemical.”
Though her studies consumed the majority of her time, Vowles worked hard during the week so she could rock climb with friends during the weekends. On top of studies and climbing, Vowles served as the president of the SUU Chemistry Club and helped teach science to elementary school children.
“It’s fun to see little kids get excited when you make water disappear,” she said. “I also loved talking with high school students about chemistry and encouraging them to attend college.”
Inspired by her time instructing elementary children, Vowles is looking to work with Teach For America, a nonprofit organization focused on providing quality educators right out of college to teach in low-income communities.
“Science teachers are hard to find in general, but especially chemistry teachers,” she said. “Educators have been so influential in my life, so being able to give back and help a new generation of scientists understand the workings of the world will be so rewarding. I want to introduce young minds to the world of science that I love.”
Dr. Mackay Steffensen, associate professor of chemistry at SUU, has worked with Vowles extensively as her professor and fellow researcher.
“Sidney is an exceptionally talented and hardworking student, in addition to being one of the most pleasant people you’ll have the pleasure of interacting with,” says Steffensen. “She has one of the most mature approaches to education I have encountered in all of my nine years of teaching. Sidney represents all the best aspects of SUU.”
After her time with Teach For America, Vowles plans on attending medical school and training to become a obstetrician or a gynecologist or to work in surgery. She hopes to help women and young girls feel comfortable with healthcare issues.
Vowles says her parents are her biggest cheerleaders.
“None of this would be possible without them,” says Vowles. “As long as I am working hard, they take care of what I need and are so supportive. They are the best.”
